Pulmonary Embolism

Pulmonary Embolism

Obstruction preventing blood flow in the pulmonary vessels. In order to maintain blood flow, the embolus travels from the venous circulation to the right side of the heart and pulmonary artery, obstructing arterial pressure and increasing right ventricular work.

Types of Embolism

• Blood clot,
• Air,
• Fat,
• Amniotic fluid,
• Septic.

Pathophysiology

A foreign item that enters the bloodstream causes an embolism. It might be air, fat, or a blood clot. A blood clot that has entered a pulmonary artery is often what is referred to as a pulmonary thromboembolism (PTE). An area of the lung is well ventilated with air but lacks blood flow or perfusion as a result of the blood flow obstruction, which results in this situation. Because the blood supply to the affected area of the lung is inadequate or nonexistent, pulmonary dead space develops, seriously impairing gas exchange. Occasionally damage occurs to a portion of the lung infarction, and it is not common because oxygen is delivered to lung tissue not only from the pulmonary arteries but also via the bronchial arteries and the airways.

Etiology

• Obesity,
• Advancing age,
• Prolong immobilization,
• Hyper-coagulability,
• Venous stasis,
• Thrombophlebitis,
• Pregnancy and contraceptive,
• Abdominal, pelvic or thoracic surgery.

Clinical Manifestation

• Dyspnea,
• Tachypnea,
• Tachycardia,
• Chest pain,
• Low-grade fever,
• Thrombosis,
• Sudden death.

Diagnosis Test

• ABGs levels,
• Pulmonary graphy,
• Chest x-ray,
• Radioisotope side.

Treatment

• Anticoagulant drug : Heparin,
• Morphine,
• Diuretic.

Nursing Management

• Bed rests allow for both active and passive movements.
• Maintain the fowler posture for the patient to improve ventilation.
• Help the patient turn, cough, and take deep breaths to open the chest airway and move any secretions.
• To improve oxygenation, provide oxygen.
• ABGs surveillance
• To determine fluid volume, keep track of and document intake and outflow.
• Evaluate the condition of the heart.
• Provide patients receiving anticoagulant therapy with health education.
• Keep an eye on your vital signs often.

Prevent Injury

• Wear shoes or slippers avoid going barefoot.
• Use soft toothbrush.
• Use an electric razor to shave.

References

• http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/pulmonary-embolism/symptoms-causes/dxc-20234744
• https://medlineplus.gov › Health Topics
• www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/pulmonary-embolism/home/ovc-20234736
• www.healthline.com/health/pulmonary-embolus